Tottenham Hotspur fans have been left split following reports that Manchester United are preparing a bid for club captain Cristian Romero, with opinion divided over the prospect of the Argentine defender moving to a direct rival.
Spurs Web relayed earlier today that Cristian Romero is attracting interest from Manchester United.
The Red Devils, who are back in the Champions League, are looking to strengthen their defence and have identified the Spurs centre-back as a key target.
It is understood that Michael Carrick’s side is preparing an offer for Romero, although they are not expected to have a clear run at the defender.
Both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid remain in the race for the World Cup winner, with interest in Romero continuing to grow in Spain.
Tottenham fans react to Cristian Romero Manchester United links
Tottenham supporters, many of whom have given Romero his fair share of criticism during his time in north London, have now reacted to the latest reports.
A large section of the fanbase believes now is the right time for Spurs to part ways with the 28-year-old as the club continues reshaping their defence.
One fan wrote: “Give us £70m and I do not care where he goes, been a defensive liability this year,” while another added: “If the price is right, I do not care where he goes. United will probably pay more than anyone else, so make it happen 💪”
Another supporter urged Spurs to demand a premium fee, writing: “We better put Prem tax on this, £70m minimum.”
Others, however, would prefer Romero to move abroad instead, with one fan commenting: “I’d be devastated if he went to another Premier League club tbh.”
Another added: “I was okay with selling him to a club abroad but this would just be odd and feel wrong.”
Some supporters also felt a move to Manchester United would alter the perception around Romero, with one writing: “He will look like the best defender in the world at Utd. He’ll get reffed differently than at Tottenham and be able to bully people.”
A final supporter added: “If he wants to leave then he can leave. Would be funny to see how the narrative would change about him tho. Wouldn’t hear many more ‘oooooh’s every damn tackle he makes from Neville I’ll tell u that.”
Spurs could demand major fee for Cristian Romero
Spurs will surely hope to command a premium fee for the centre-back, given the strong position they hold heading into any negotiations.
Romero only signed a new contract last summer amid interest from Atletico Madrid, with his current deal running until 2029.
However, there is some concern surrounding a reported release clause included in the agreement. Romero’s father previously confirmed that the clause sits between $50m-$70m (£37.8m-£53m), while also suggesting Spurs would look to recover what they invested in the defender.
Whether Romero’s release clause also applies to English clubs remains unclear, although if Romero is to remain in the Premier League, Tottenham are likely to value him at significantly more than £53m – particularly when Jan Paul van Hecke, who has just one year left on his deal, is reportedly valued at around £70m.
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